The fear of necrotizing enterocolitis versus achieving optimal growth in preterm infants - An opinion

Orna Flidel-Rimon, David Branski, Eric S. Shinwell

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

45 Scopus citations

Abstract

Very-low-birthweight (VLBW) infants suffer marked growth delay despite well-intentioned efforts at combining enteral and parenteral nutrition. Fear of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) has traditionally influenced neonatologists toward delaying and progressing slowly with enteral feeding, while supporting the infant with parenteral nutrition. Current evidence suggests significant benefits of enteral feeding that is started early and advanced at rates of 20-35 ml/kg/d. Conclusion: We conclude that fear of inadequate growth should replace the fear of NEC in guiding nutritional strategies for these infants.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1341-1344
Number of pages4
JournalActa Paediatrica, International Journal of Paediatrics
Volume95
Issue number11
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Nov 2006
Externally publishedYes

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